Contents
Description
Bombycilaena is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, also known as the Asteraceae family. This genus comprises only two species, both of which are native to South America. The plants are known for their beautiful bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The genus name Bombycilaena is derived from the Greek words bombux (silk) and kilaena (swallow), which refers to the silky hairs on the achenes (seeds) that resemble the wings of a swallow.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bombycilaena |
Appearance
Bombycilaena plants are small shrubs that can grow up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are green, narrow, and elongated, about 2-4 cm long and 1-2 mm wide. The flowers are bright yellow, with a diameter of about 3 cm, and have a central disk that is surrounded by ray flowers. The plants bloom in the summer, from December to February. The achenes (seeds) are small and have silky hairs that resemble the wings of a swallow.
Care Guide
Water: Bombycilaena plants prefer well-draining soil and regular watering during the growing season. However, they are drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage growth and flowering.
Soil: Bombycilaena plants prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. They can grow in sandy, loamy, or rocky soil.
Sunlight: These plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade but will not flower as much.
Hardiness Zones: Bombycilaena plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bombycilaena plants are generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, spider mites and aphids may attack the plants, especially in dry conditions. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Bombycilaena plants are native to South America, particularly in the central Andes region, including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. They are found in rocky or sandy areas, including deserts, mountains, and valleys.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bombycilaena plants tolerate frost?
A: No, Bombycilaena plants are not frost-tolerant and will die if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Bombycilaena plants?
A: Fertilize the plants once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Bombycilaena plants in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Bombycilaena plants in a container as long as the container has good drainage and the plants are watered regularly.
Q: Do Bombycilaena plants attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Bombycilaena plants are attractive to bees and butterflies because of their bright yellow flowers.
Related Plants
- Encelia
- Helianthus
- Hymenoxys
- Tithonia
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Bombycilaena. Flora of North America. Retrieved December 5, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=106763
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Bombycilaena. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c596
- USDA. (n.d.). Bombycilaena. USDA PLANTS Database. Retrieved December 5, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=BOMBY
